Whitening your teeth is one of the simplest, most convenient improvements you can make to your smile. It is a fast, cost-effective way to enhance your appearance and self-esteem. Having a bright, white smile can take years off your face and make you want to share your smile more often. Although there are many over-the-counter whitening products available, teeth whitening supervised by your dentist will assure the best results and minimize any chance of complications. Dr. Van O’Dell offers professional teeth whitening to patients in North Little Rock, AR and surrounding areas so they can look their best. An experienced, trusted dentist, Dr. O’Dell will personally supervise your whitening treatment to help you get dazzling results. To learn more, or to schedule a consultation, contact our staff today.

Candidates for Professional Teeth Whitening

Most patients who want to lighten their teeth are candidates for dentist-supervised teeth whitening. There are a few exceptions to note. First, because the bleaching agents in teeth whitening solutions only work on natural teeth, patients with fabrications such as veneers, crowns, or bonding on their front teeth may not be the best candidates. Depending on the number and location of existing fabrications, patients could still be candidates for bleaching if they choose to have them replaced to match the lighter color. Second, bleaching works best on yellowish stains that are usually caused from foods, beverages, and tobacco. Intrinsic stains, which are grayish in color and typically result from certain health conditions and medications, do not respond as well to treatment. If you have these deep types of stains, you may be a better candidate for porcelain veneers or dental bonding. Finally, candidates must be in good oral health. If you have any conditions such as gum disease or cavities, Dr. O’Dell will need to provide you with restorative dentistry treatment before you can have your teeth whitened.

How It Works

If you are found to be a good candidate for teeth whitening, Dr. O’Dell will make a set of custom trays for your upper and lower teeth. He will do this by taking impressions of your teeth so the finished trays will fit closely and securely. He will then provide you with professional strength whitening gel to take home with you.

Unlike over-the-counter whitening products, custom trays assure that your mouthpiece has an exact fit and uniformly distributes the gel. It also keeps the bleaching gel from getting out of the trays and onto your gums, which can cause irritation. The bleaching gel you receive from Dr. O’Dell is also more powerful than what is available at the drugstore.

At-home whitening treatment with your custom trays will take about two weeks, depending on your condition and aesthetic goals. You simply fill the trays with bleaching solution and wear them for approximately 30 minutes per day. Throughout your treatment, Dr. O’Dell will be available for guidance and to answer any questions you may have. At the end of your treatment, you can anticipate your teeth being noticeably whiter, usually by several shades.

Find Out More

Dr. O’Dell uses the latest cosmetic dentistry techniques and has an uncompromising commitment to quality that gives his patients their best smiles. Our office is comfortable and friendly, with a fantastic and caring staff. If you are interested in refining your appearance with this simple treatment, contact us to schedule an appointment today.